Lewis Larson Obituary
Lewis "Bob" Larson
Frankfort, Mi
11/05/1934 - 08/29/2025
Lewis Robert Larson (Bob), age 90, of Frankfort, Michigan, passed away peacefully on August 29th, 2025 surrounded by family.
Son, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend; Bob was born November 5th, 1934 in Frankfort, MI. He was the second son of Stollie and Ida (Johnson) Larson. Bob spent his childhood with family members and lifelong friends, his brother Harold and his cousin John Johnson. He attended Frankfort High School, graduating in the class of 1954. At the age of 20, Bob married the love of his life, Catherine Ruth (Snyder) Larson, on June 19th, 1955 in Frankfort, MI. He and Catherine had three children: Cathy (Fred) Burcroff of Beulah, Robert (Diane) Larson of Pentwater, and their adopted daughter, Tracy Larson of South Bend, IN.
Bob was dedicated to his career and community. He took pride in the 27 years devoted to the Ann Arbor Railroad as a carman. Later in life, he continued to serve his community through his work as a custodian for the Benzie County Courthouse and through performing various supportive roles within the Trinity Lutheran Church in Frankfort, where he was a lifetime member.
His kindness, music, and sense of humor touched everyone who knew him. Bob had a warm personality and was always cracking jokes and making friends wherever he went. His musical talent and creativity would capture his love for life, and has left a positive impact on those around him. Bob was a self-taught musician who could make music with just about any instrument: guitar, fiddle, banjo, saxophone, accordion, harmonica, and many more. It was often said that if he was handed an instrument, Bob would find a way to play it. He enjoyed sharing his gift of music with others. Bob enjoyed playing with the "Betsie Bay Minstrels," who played at many different venues and festivals. In the later years, he often played at the Gathering Place Senior Center, and for various other senior living communities.
Bob had a big heart for animals and was known to carry a pocketful of dog treats with him at all times in preparation for meeting new buddies. Bob and Catherine loved a variety of pets over the years. Their grandchildren had known them to always have a German Shepherd or two by their sides. Being a father, grandfather, and great-grandfather was the pride of Bob's life. He has made a special impact on the lives of his grandchildren.
Remaining to cherish Bob's memory are his children: Cathy (Fred) Burcroff, Robert (Diane) Larson, and Tracy Larson. He leaves behind several beloved granddaughters: Shannon Larson (Craig Bowen), Carrie (Andrew) Bucholtz, Jennifer (Jared) Bowen, Kristin Burcroff, and Caitlin (Joseph) Perry. Bob is lovingly remembered by his great-grandchildren: Lane Rood, Ava Bucholtz, Kaleb Bucholtz, Bennett Bucholtz, and Kieran Perry. He is loved and missed by his cousin John Johnson, and his niece Linda (Lee) Reed.
Preceding him in death were Bob's parents: Stollie and Ida (Johnson) Larson, his brother Harold Larson, his loving wife Catherine (Snyder) Larson, and his grandson Robert Christopher Larson.
Family and friends are invited to join in a Celebration of Life to be held on Saturday October 25th, 2025, beginning at 11:00 AM. The Celebration of Life will take place at the Trinity Lutheran Church, 955 James St., Frankfort, MI. Pastor Rick Stieve will officiate. Family will receive friends one hour prior to the service for visitation. Bob will be interred beside his wife, Catherine, at the Crystal Lake Township East Cemetery. Flowers may be sent to the Trinity Lutheran Church. Those who wish, may make memorial contributions to Benzie Senior Resources, 10542 Main Street, Honor, MI 49640. Jowett Family Funeral Homes and Cremation Service will be handling the arrangements.
Published by Benzie County Record Patriot on Sep. 24, 2025.